I usually don't call the waiter or waitress by name, but sometimes I do.

--
"Women who behave rarely make history."
vampirewriters[link] & writers-club [link]

Of course, I would see how many times I could use his name when he is around, and as much as possible to him.

--
"Flying is learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss." - Douglas Adams

I file the name away for future use. Often I've found waitpeople are pleased/impressed if you remember their name from a first encounter and are (1) more likely to pay attention to you later when you recognize them by name, and (2) it's a nice way to make a human connection.

Eating is not just a business transaction; it's a social interaction.

I don't see the point in calling your waiter Edward if he just told you his name.


--
"People are bastard-coated bastards with bastard filling"

"Thank you, Edward." Followed by a smile. =]

--
The woods are lovely, dark and deep
But I have promises to keep
And miles to go before I sleep...
And miles to go before I sleep
-Robert Frost

I'd use their name and be polite, even kind. I have been there and it's good to be treated nicely. Plus you neverknow when a new friendship is about to begin

--
Don't blame me.

I'm just here for the cookies.

--
I'm a po [link] et
And [link] an artist

Did the name have to be edward?

--
Hear lit tweet here

I don't necessarily use the name; it usually feels stilted. I smile and say thanks, though. I always try to be really nice to people who work in public service, because I know that kind of work sucks. It makes me mad when people take their bad day out on their waiter, or whoever.

--
[insert something witty here]